By Jeremiah Gayflor
MONROVIA — Prominent Liberian politician Tiawan Saye Gongloe has sharply criticized Vice President Jeremiah Koung over recent comments suggesting that a small number of individuals in Liberia could “take over a city in Guinea,” describing the statement as “irresponsible, reckless, and inflammatory.”
Speaking on the growing tensions surrounding the Liberia–Guinea border situation, Gongloe, who serves as Political Leader of the Liberia People’s Party (LPP), warned that such rhetoric risks damaging diplomatic ties between the two neighboring countries.
“There is a current darkness permeating the circles of our government,” Gongloe said. “Just two days ago, our Vice President made a very inflammatory statement that could escalate the problem between Guinea and Liberia.”
He argued that the Vice President’s remarks fell short of the expectations of his office. “That statement was irresponsible, reckless, and inflammatory. It is not expected of a responsible Vice President of Liberia. He undermined his position by making that statement and jeopardized the relationship between Liberia and Guinea,” Gongloe added.
The LPP leader emphasized that Liberia has historically maintained strong ties with Guinea and should avoid actions or statements that could strain that relationship. Drawing on his experience as a former presidential envoy to Guinea, Gongloe expressed confidence that tensions would not escalate into conflict.
“I can put my head on the chopping board—Guinea will never fight Liberia,” he asserted. “I was told by Guinean authorities that the Republic of Guinea owes so much to Liberia that it can never repay.”
Despite his optimism, Gongloe called for a more measured and responsible approach to addressing the border issue. He urged the Liberian government to prioritize dialogue and fact-finding rather than inflammatory rhetoric.
“When there’s a problem, there should be attempts to solve it,” he said. “I suggested that the President establishes a Commission of Inquiry to find out what happened at the border. That’s what a responsible government does.”
The Vice President has not yet publicly responded to Gongloe’s criticism. Meanwhile, observers say the incident underscores the sensitivity of cross-border relations and the need for caution in official statements.
